Well this is a new one on me, drilling into end grain with an 8mm bit, was getting tough to back it out (it was approx 20cm deep) and by the time I got it out it looked like this. Something tells me it's not proper hss!

Beginner here - sorry if this is a dumb question.

I've tried using blue shop towels and microfiber rags, but the both leave fibers behind that are now basically glued in by the finish. And do you turn on your lathe to apply the finish or do you just spin the headstock by hand?

In October last year, I made a poplar bowl, burned the outside, and coloured the inside to evoke fire. This weekend, I revisited the concept, but this time I faceted the exterior before burning.

Poplar with yakisugi/shou sugi ban, spirit stain, and pure tung oil.

6 inches / 15 centimetres by 2⅓ inches / 3 centimetres

Video link, if you are so inclined: https://youtu.be/SBurb3lQkGQ

I'm very happy with how these turned out! I inherited a lathe from my late uncle and have just started using it after picking up some pen turning essentials. I've turned less than 10 pieces and I learn something new each time.

This red cedar came from the top of a tree that fell on a property where I have a willow research plot, so I turned a couple of pens to give to the caretakers of the property as a thank you for their hard work there.

Yes, that is so !

I have a bunch of these tiny rectangle blanks from bowl blank scraps. I’d like to do something with them. Preferably on a lathe since I don’t have too much machinery. I was thinking things like spinning tops or fidget toys. Maybe Christmas trees if they’re big enough. But any other ideas would be appreciated.

I don’t have a ring or pen mandrel so those are out

My son is making a bed frame so I volunteered to make 6 legs/feet. The right is 10", the left is 15, and the middle is 14...the final height. This was way different than making a 4" finial or a simple tool handle. While I learned many things, I did not find a great way to make the bottom of the square a clean cut as I transitioned to the spindle. I tried a variety of tools with mediocre results...I'm open to ideas... Note: this was just a 4x4 untreated pine post that I used for experimenting...the finals will be mahogany...but I have to try duplicating now...another never before attempted feat!

Hi all. For all the acrylic pens I’ve done before, I’ve had to use my grandpa’s bandsaw. I have a scroll saw but the one time i tried it, the acrylic melted around the blade. Just wondering if anyone else has experience using a scroll saw on acrylic and if so, what type of blade I should use. I don’t really want to buy a whole bandsaw just for this so any tips would be appreciated.

For the same price - Numbers tell me 2hp, anyone have any experiences?

Hi guys. A gentleman offered to sell me these.
What do you think the value of these are and can i get your opinion on them?

Thanks

Hello, I recently purchased a handful of woodworking tools from a gentleman who was clearing out his workshop. I picked up this lathe for what I assume was pretty cheap ($100). If I’m being honest it was a bit of a spur of the moment decision. I know very little about it and am curious as to what I picked up. On a scale of harbor freight budget lathe to master wood turner where does this lie?

First time milling my own logs. Is this all punky wood? Maple logs that have been outside for a few weeks. Thanks for the help!!

My son-in-law is very into chess and I am thinking of making him a chess set.

Does anyone know of af any interesting design resources for chess peices? I would like it to be both distinctive and practical.

Friend gave me this. We don't know what it came from. Ideas?

My wife bought me the WEN model LA3424 4.5 Amp 12 in. x 18 in. 5-Speed Benchtop Wood Lathe. But when it came in, the base was cracked so badly, we have to send it back.

My question is should I have her order the same lathe again and hope for the best, or should we go with something different?

I am looking to buy some carbide tools because I like to turn acrylic pens but my current tools are getting dull and aren't meant for acrylic. I've heard that carbide tools are better especially with a negative rake tip. I found this set of tools from lee valley for about half the price of the EWT ones. I'm just wondering if the negative rake tips from EWT will be compatible or if I should spend the extra money for the EWT tools?

I'm new to carbide tools so any other tips on acrylic pen turning are very welcome.

Probably my most ambitious bowl yet! It's made up of curly maple, canary wood, Santos mahogany, black limba, Peruvian walnut, zebrawood, padauk, and white oak! I didn't measure enough when I glued it altogether, so it forced me to buy a brand new bandsaw (oh poor me...!) It's not as big in diameter as I was hoping, but for a first it's pretty badass if I do say so myself!